stress. Adaptogens strengthen cells, tissues, organs and glands. Adaptogens
work through support of the adrenal glands, especially. (Garlic, Echinacea,
Ginkgo, Goldenseal, Pau D’Arco and Ginseng.)
Adrenal Glands a pair of triangular-shaped glands that sit on top of each
kidney. Glands of internal secretion whose effects mimic those of the
sympathetic nervous system; increase carbohydrate use of energy. Also,
regulate carbohydrate and fat metabolism and salt/water balance, as well as
steroid hormones. They are the source of neurotransmitters like epinephrine
(adrenaline) and steroids like cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone, among
others.
Adrenaline a neurotransmitter secreted by the adrenal glands that produce the
“fight or flight” response. Also called Epinephrine.
Adsorb attachment of a substance to the surface of another material.
Adulterant an unacceptable additive or replacement of a specified herb (also:
substitute).
Aerobic 1. requiring oxygen for metabolism and survival; 2. concerning
organisms living in the presence of oxygen; 3. metabolizing oxygen for
energy.
Alcohols found in plant volatile oils.
Aldosterone a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that causes the
retention of sodium and water.
Alimentary Canal (or GI Tract) the digestive tube from the mouth to the
anus, including mouth cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large
intestines, and rectum.
Alkaline pertaining to or having the reaction of an alkali. Neutralizes acids.
In the scenario of duality, this is considered yin or cooling.
Alkaloids 1. a powerful and potent group (thirteen) of plant constituents.
Their properties are very broad ranging from hallucinogenic alkaloids at one
end, to painkillers, to deadly poisonous alkaloids at the other end. 2.
Alkaloids react with acids to form salts that are used for medical purposes.
Allopathy/Allopathic 1. System of treating disease by inducing a pathologic
reaction that is antagonistic to the disease being treated. 2. Conventional
medicine or alternative medicine when compared to nature.
Alterative tending to restore normal health; cleanses and purifies the blood;
alters existing nutritive and excretory processes gradually restoring normal